Singapore welcomes Malaysia’s intentions for HSR discussion

SINGAPORE (August 1): Singapore’s Ministry of Transport (MOT) said that Singapore welcomes Malaysia’s intention to discuss the High-Speed Rail (HSR) project. 

Malaysia’s Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali sent the republic’s government a letter, dated July 23, 2018, announcing the planned discussion, reported Bernama. 

Since June 1, the MOT had previously requested for clarification on Malaysia’s position on the project, via diplomatic channels, suggesting that a meeting should take place by July 31, 2018. 

“As of Aug 1, 2018, Malaysia has not proposed a meeting date,” said MOT in a statement issued late Wednesday night, as quoted by Bernama.

Azmin has said the meeting would likely take place this month.

Regarding the Rapid Transit System (RTS) project, MOT said there had been no official response on the formation of a joint venture company (JV) to be the RTS link operator.  

Malaysia’s Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook previously indicated that a JV would be set up, pending approval by the cabinet. 

The MOT said they are looking forward to a response soon.

The news agency reported that a working paper with detailed information on the project would be presented for approval soon. The government has already agreed, in priciple, to the implementation of the RTS project. 

Bernama quoted the MOT: “Singapore remains committed to working closely with Malaysia to ensure the smooth implementation of the RTS Link project.”

Previously, it was reported that SMRT Corporation Ltd, the Singapore rail operator, and Prasarana Malaysia missed the June 30 deadline to form a JV, to operate the link.